Motivation

Lots of people spend some time doing “irresponsible” things before they settle into their careers. This time, in theory, lets them “find themselves” and “figure out who they really are”. I don’t know what that means, but it seems that folks need that period in their lives. Perhaps they take a year off after college and backpack around New Zealand. Maybe they ski bum for a while in Colorado. Some peopledepart for a year of surfing in Mexico. I started work just two weeks after my college graduation. Hardly enough time to pack up my things and move across the country.

I won’t deny that I dug into my fair share of escapades in my younger years, but I’ve never completely unplugged from responsibilities and gone on an adventure. An adventure that truly tested me and allowed me to explore what I’m capable of, what I truly love to do, what kind of life I want to lead. I’ve got notions of these things now, but how can I really be sure? Have I gone out and done anything? Have I pitted myself against the world and lived to tell a tale? Have I ever even truly challenged myself? Nope, I’ve either been in school or working a nine-to-five job as long as I can remember. While these things brought me lots of fulfillment at times and have completely shaped who I am, I’m done with them.

People die every day in car accidents and random shootings. If I were lying in the street dying tomorrow, what would I want to be thinking? “Gee, I’m glad I took care of that TPS report,” or perhaps, “at least I took out that mortgage, that was a good move!” No goddamn way! I’d want to be thinking, “I’m so glad I skied all that pow,” or, “sailing to Chile was such a great adventure!” I want to have no regrets. I want to accomplish all of the incredible things I’m capable of. I want to have truly lived.